What is spalted maple?

Spalted maple is a type of wood that has been partially decayed by fungi, resulting in a unique and visually striking pattern of black lines, streaks, and spots against a light-colored background. This process occurs naturally when a tree is left to decay in damp or humid conditions, and can also be artificially induced by exposing the wood to specific types of fungi.

Spalted maple is highly prized by woodworkers and furniture makers for its aesthetic appeal, and is often used in decorative veneers, turned objects, and high-end musical instruments such as guitars and violins. It is also a popular choice for flooring and interior paneling.

Due to the decayed nature of the wood, spalted maple can be fragile and prone to splitting or cracking, and may require specialized care during cutting and finishing. It is also more susceptible to insect damage and rot than non-spalted woods.

Only certain types of maple trees are suitable for spalting, including silver maple, bigleaf maple, and box elder. Other types of wood can also be spalted, including birch, beech, and oak.